Lunch with Chef Judi: Jim's Small Batch Bakery

SARASOTA, Fla. -- A little gem in Gulf Gate, Jim's Small Batch Bakery lets the food do the talking -- and boy can it shout!

I've known Jim since he prepared 300 chocolate souflees for an event and every one came out perfect! Classic French pastry, Challah bread on Fridays, and that candied BLT that is simply divine and irresistible.

If you have a favorite, like tres leches cake, they will call you on the day he prepares one so you can buy slices at $4.00 each.

Trust me, this is THE bakery on the Suncoast for unique pastries and a cranberry muffin that has won best muffin over and over.

Jim's Small Batch Bakery is located at 2336 Gulf Gate Drive in Sarasota. You can call them at 922-2253.

Coconut Macaroons

Ingredients:

Dessicated coconut -- 1 lb

Flour -- 4 Tbsp

Cream of Tartar -- 1/2 tsp

Salt --1 tsp

Sugar -- 4 cups

Corn Syrup -- 1/3 cup

Water -- 1/2 cup

Unsalted Butter --- 4 Tbsp

Egg Whites -- 2/3 cup

Vanilla -- 1 tsp

Combine first 3 ingredients in the bowl of a 5 qt mixer and reserve. In a large heavy pot, heat sugar, corn syrup, water and butter together, bring to a boil and boil for 1 min. over medium heat.